Learning sciences advances understanding of the learning process and the design of innovative learning environments. This interdisciplinary, research-based field originated at Northwestern University, where the School of Education and Social Policy started the first learning sciences program in the world to help people develop the skills needed for an increasingly complex world.
PhD in Learning Sciences
Students become qualified as researchers, developers and practitioners who advance the scientific understanding and practice of teaching and learning.
PhD in Computer Science and Learning Sciences (CS+LS)
This program builds on enduring and growing connections between research on learning and computation.
Masters in Learning Sciences
Students learn to advance the understanding and practice of teaching and learning in formal and informal settings.
Meet Our Learning Sciences Alumni
Alumni of the Learning Sciences program advance to leadership positions in academic, nonprofit and business organizations. Master's graduates work as educational designers, consultants, training providers and school technologists. PhD graduates excel as researchers with universities, government agencies and private firms.
See what our Learning Sciences PhD alumni are doing.News
Stay current with the latest news from our Learning Sciences program.
Student Films Explore Race, Power, and Technology
Three timely documentary films examining the impact of new policing and surveillance technologies on communities in Chicago and Evanston will premiere online in a special event organized by Northwestern University’s School of Education and Social Policy (SESP) and the Block Museum of Art.
News Literacy in an Era of Fake News
People are influenced by inaccurate information even when they know better -- and even when they’re warned, professor David Rapp said during a recent webinar on news media literacy.
Rising Scholars Receive NAEd/Spencer Fellowships and Awards
Five early career researchers – including doctoral students Julissa Muñiz and Cora Wigger – were among the winners of the prestigious 2020 National Academy of Education (NAEd)/Spencer Postdoctoral and Dissertation Fellowships Awards.